At Riverside Psychology, we use Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT) to treat individuals struggling with trauma or other stressor-related disorders. CPT is a manualized, evidence-based treatment for those who’s PTSD has changed the way they see themselves, the world, or the future. While we cannot change what happened in the past, after completing CPT, our clinicians can guarantee a healthier, more hopeful future.

What do “cognitive” and “processing” mean?

The “C” of CPT is based on something called “social cognitive theory.” This is all about the way that we make sense of a traumatic event, and how that understanding impacts the way that we feel. In order to recover from PTSD, we’ll work on changing some unhelpful lessons you may have learned from the trauma. This will lessen some of the painful emotions and symptoms related to PTSD.

The “P” of CPT is based on something called “emotional processing theory.” This is all about the way that we naturally avoid reminders of our traumatic past. Of course, it’s frightening and upsetting to face things that remind us of our traumas, but this avoidance keeps our PTSD symptoms around.

Themes Addressed in CPT:

• Feeling safe, protected, and able to judge dangerous situations
• Becoming empowered, capable, and in-control
• A healthy balance of trust and mistrust
• Self-worth, self-esteem, and the worth of others
• Allowing yourself to be close to others and alone with yourself

If you or someone you know could benefit from CPT, Riverside Psychology can help. We invite you to contact us today for a free consultation.